QNotes, March 11-24, 2016

March 11-24 . 2016

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Staying in the closet

qnotes news & features

arts. entertainment. news. views.

11 Charlotte NDO under fire

12 News Notes: Regional Briefs 14 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs

a&e / life&style 15 Staying in the closet

Author spells out the damgers to mental and physical health page 15

18 Leading Ladies 21 Tell Trinity 22 Q Events Calendar 23 Dishing with Buff Faye

opinions & views   9 Spiritual Reflections   9 Guest Commentary: Christian 10 Guest Commentary: Demagoguery

more news & features for our readers

Buff Faye dishes it out!

Charlotte in a post NDO world

Drag tips and tricks to make you totally fabulous. page 23

Votes to become more fair and welcoming page 10

10 Guest Commentary: Charlotte

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spiritual reflections

by Isai Efuru :: guest contributor

Go for it! school that inspired me as a seventh grader. By the time I reached my 40s, When I was a young girl, I wanted to become a teacher. When I was I was convinced that there was nothing I couldn’t do, and that everything a teenager, I just wanted to graduate high school and attend college. else from here was mine to claim. I began to do things just because I Underneath those two wishes, there was a deeper need to feel safe and “felt” like doing them. to stop hurting. The sexual abuse of my pastor, the emotional abuse of my I felt like being a novelist, so I wrote a book. I felt like being in a band, babysitter and bullies all had me wanting desperately to end life as I knew so I started one. I felt like swinging my hair in the breeze, so I grew locs. it. I had no refuge; I had no voice. I needed to find a way out.

I felt like performing, so I took my voice, my poetry and When I was 16, I met Desiree Coleman, the teen band all over. I felt like helping people reach God, so I star of a Broadway showed called “Mama, I Want to became a worship leader. I felt like giving back to kids, so Sing!” She told me that she was 18 and to just go for I became my school’s chorus teacher and cheerleading what I wanted. Two weeks later, I stood up in church, coach. I felt like writing for a newspaper, so I became a sang a song and testified to everyone listening that I columnist for Praise 100.9 and qnotes. I felt like answering now was ready to find out what God had in store for God’s call within me to minister to people at another level, me. As I went through college, I joined several clubs so I became involved in outreach, began an outreach just to belong to something. After I was discovered choir, and then, in October 2015, became an outreach as a vocalist, I went on to record music just for the pastor. fun of it. I then found out that I loved to dance, and I didn’t do any of this fully equipped; I did it all on faith, then danced for the joy of it. and trusted God to handle the rest. I simply “went for it.”

When I graduated college, I had become a All I had to do was to realize that everything I desired had popular poet on campus due to my submissions in Photo Credit: rocketclip via Dollar Photo Club been prepared, and everything that had tried to stop me the Black Student Union’s paper. I began to write just had failed. I put less thought into my actions, and more for the releasing of pain. I continued to sing and write determination in my feet. I don’t regret any of it. The journey has given me through my 20s, and then found God again through the Unity Fellowship “life” and favor unlimited. The most wonderful thing about all of this is that Church of Christ movement. I attended the services for the safety and I’m just getting started! There is so much more within me that God needs freedom. I kept pushing forward because I now felt I had a few things to to help the world. live for. I began to live just for the sake of believing that I was worth it.

There is nothing that you desire that you can’t have. God is waiting on My 30s brought many wonderful experiences through my God-given you to digest that belief and to make a decision on when, not if, you want talents and anointing. Motherhood was a blessing that allowed me to pour it for yourself. The key to abundant life is to use who you are and where love into another soul. I was elated that God was choosing me to do such you’ve been to look at life, see what you want, and “Go For It!” : : amazing things. I’d also become a teacher by now, beginning with the

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qnotes connect March 11-24, 2016 Vol 30 No 23

arts. entertainment. news. views. goqnotes.com twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas

contributors this issue

Susanna Birdsong, Buff Faye, Nick de la Canal, Isai Efuru, Chris Fitzsimon, Julia Fox, Lainey Millen, Jeff Taylor, Trinity, Erika Wyse

front page

Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photography: alphaspirit via Dollar Photo Club Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues.

guest commentary

by Erika Wyse :: guest contributor

Being Christian is hard for some It is hard to be a Christian these days. I’m going to let you marinate on that, and I’m going to say that again: it is hard to be a Christian these days.

I’d like to tell you a story that gives you a bit of color behind what I’m trying to say.

My name is Erika. I live in Charlotte, North Carolina. On Feb. 22, there was a hearing at the Government Center where the City Council passed an historic non-discrimination ordinance which expanded to include the LGBT population. In Charlotte, it is now illegal to deny service in a restaurant to a member of the LGBT community. Also, in a taxicab, and a hotel. A transgender person can now use the restroom of their gender identity without the threat of violence.

Now, one would think, why would such a law need to be passed? But there is research to show that this discrimination was occurring, and without such a law in place, it was not required for this discrimination to be recorded when reported because it was not considered technically against the law. Last year, this ordinance was proposed and it was voted down. And the meeting was aggressively hostile. This year, each speaker was limited to one minute. There were 140 speakers signed up to speak. I was not one of them.

And I’ll tell you honestly why.

I was afraid.

There is so much hatred and evil spewed out of the mouths of so many people these days. It is so sad. What makes it abhorrent to me is that when it is spewed in the name of God. People who speak any words of hatred in God’s name, here is a disclaimer: you got a bad copy of the Bible. Take it back to the

store and get a refund. When you get your new copy, look up John, Chapter 4, verse 16. If it roughly translates to “God Is Love” you are good. Go home and start reading. I recommend you start from the “God is Love” part. Take it to heart people.

I’m not here to quote a lot of Bible verses at people or try to convert them, I’m here to talk about why I am afraid. And why I am sad. I was afraid to speak my truth, and afraid to tell my story. You see, I am a married woman with a child. And, I am a member of the LGBT community. And we are judged, and condemned and violence is acted upon us. All in the name of my beloved God. And, honestly, I was afraid that I would go home injured to my son. And that I would not be able to explain that to him.

So I stayed quiet, and I didn’t tell my story. But it is time.

When I was younger, I was in a relationship, and I was forced from my home by my landlord, and my rent money was not returned to me. I was homeless, and I was forced to live in my car, because I am bisexual. Because I am an abomination. Because someone was scared of me. But people see me and my husband and my kid and don’t consider me a threat, or on the other side, someone who would have an interesting story to consider. So I sit quietly and blend in the shadows. And I feel very disappointed in myself for not telling these amazing people that they are being lied to.

These wonderful people, that feed the hungry, that care for the sick, the homeless, those less fortunate than them. Those that are beaten, spit on, called abominations and sinners. Those whom I have read when they have written, “Why does God Hate Me?” and,

“Christians hate us,” and even worse, “We would never be welcome in church.”

And I sit here, so disgusted with myself, because I did not, as a Christian, say, “Don’t believe these liars! They bear false witness!

You are good people! God does not make mistakes! God is Love! God Loves You! And you are welcome in his house!”

Please forgive me, for not speaking up. For not defending you. Because it is really hard to be a Christian these days. : :

Errata

In our last print issue, we inadvertently had an error with regard to our coverage on the vote on Charlotte’s non-discrimination ordinance. We had reported that John Autry and LaWana Mayfield had voted last year against an amended ordinance, saying they did not want to leave any member of the LGBT community behind. It should have been Al Austin instead of John Autry. We regret the error and apologize to the parties mentioned for this situation.

QNotes Staff

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Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2016 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

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March 11-24 . 2016

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guest commentary

guest commentary

by Chris Fitzsimon, NC Policy Watch :: guest contributor

by Susanna Birdsong, NC Policy Watch :: guest contributor

The disturbing demagoguery on LGBT rights

Charlotte votes to be a more fair and welcoming city Photo Credit: James Willamor, via Flickr. Licensed CC.

Photo Credit: via NC Policy Watch, Creative Commons license 3.0 SA

This is what politics in North Carolina has come to 16 years into the 21st century.

The state’s largest city follows the lead of hundreds of other local governments across the country and adopts a common sense non-discrimination ordinance to protect the basic rights of gay, lesbian and transgender people and the current political leadership of the state explodes in a fury of fear-mongering and demagoguery that is simply breathtaking to behold.

Gov. Pat McCrory, always sensitive to shoring up his skeptical right-wing base, says the ordinance is extreme left-wing regulation — whatever that means — and that it is somehow a threat to public safety and he wants the General Assembly to step in and overrule the Charlotte City Council’s vote.

House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and other lawmakers appear to be in a contest to out pander each other with references to children at risk from sexual predators and pledges to overturn the “radical course” Charlotte leaders are on.

[The General Assembly is scheduled to return to Raleigh in April for its summer session where this, in all likelihood, will be brought up for consideration.]

Franklin Graham, who McCrory and other Republicans like to hang around with, called the ordinance “wicked and filthy.”

McCrory and his fellow right-wing politicians seem to believe they have found their wedge social issue for the 2016 election and are apparently willing to say almost anything to distort it for their political advantage.

The ordinance simply protects lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people from discrimination by businesses open to the public.

A hotel cannot refuse a room to a gay couple because they are gay just as they cannot refuse a room to an African-American because of their race.

It is hardly a radical concept.

Far-right religious groups don’t want any protections for LGBT people. Period.

Politicians like McCrory and Moore are focusing primarily on the part of the ordinance

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that would allow transgender people to use the public restroom that corresponds to their gender identity.

That is where all the absurd claims about predators and the danger to children come from. But as supporters of the ordinance point out, the laws governing behavior in public bathrooms haven’t changed and neither have the laws against assault, exposure, etc.

All the law does is allow transgender people to avoid harassment and intimidation when they use a public restroom.

And left out of the harrowing harangues from the pandering politicians is that more than 250 local governments have already adopted a similar ordinance, including Columbia, South Carolina — a conservative town where at last check there has been no flurry of attempted bathroom assaults or fearful parents and children storming city hall.

And it’s tough to buy that it’s only the absurd bathroom issue that has McCrory and Moore so worked up. Both of them have refused to support legislation that provides basic workplace protections for LGBT people in the state.

You can still be fired in North Carolina simply for being gay. McCrory is apparently okay with that.

And who can forget that some legislative leaders during the debate about marriage equality a few years ago, stood side-by-side on stage with homophobic crusaders bellowing that gay people are an abomination and going to hell.

Many major corporations already have nondiscrimination policies in place and nobody’s fleeing Apple or Bank of America over their bathroom policy.

Let’s hope corporate leaders speak out in the coming legislative debate about basic civil rights for our friends and neighbors and family members who are gay or transgender.

And let’s demand that our political leaders be better than this, and stop their bigoted speech and efforts to demonize people and scare us all for their own political gain.

Enough is enough. North Carolina must be better than this. : :

North Carolina’s largest city affirmed a basic principle on Feb. 22: All people deserve to be treated fairly and protected by the law.

In a much-publicized vote, the Charlotte City Council expanded the city’s non-discrimination law to protect LGBT people from discrimination in public accommodations. The vote means that businesses open to the public, public restrooms, taxi services, hotels and other public lodging, must be equally accessible to LGBT individuals, and cannot discriminate against people simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

For decades, local law has prohibited discrimination in public accommodations based on race, color, religion, national origin, and sex. [The] vote updated that existing non-discrimination ordinance to include sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. Other protected categories added to the ordinance include marital status and family status.

During three hours of emotional testimony from supporters and opponents of the protections, council members heard directly from individuals who would be covered by the expanded ordinance. Lara Nazario, a transgender woman, described the violence and harassment that she and other transgender residents have experienced in their lives, and how she was afraid even to speak that night, as others in the room angrily compared LGBT people to child predators and worse. “I don’t want special treatment,” she explained. “I only want to be treated equally.”

Local protections for Lara and other LGBT individuals are incredibly important because there is no clear, explicit federal law that protects gay and transgender people from discrimination. This is especially true in key areas like access to public accommodations. Federal protections have been introduced in Congress but are stalled in bipartisan gridlock.

With the City Council’s vote, Charlotte has declared that when a business decides to open its doors to the public, it shouldn’t be allowed to refuse service to people because of who they are. Of course, providing a commercial service doesn’t mean a business owner endorses or

agrees with everything the customer believes.

It simply means they are providing services to the public, they are open to everyone on the same terms, and that Charlotte is open for business to all.

This is important for individuals and for the local economy as well. Major companies such as Apple explicitly told city officials that they will only expand into cities with an LGBT non-discrimination ordinance in place. Other major employers, including Siemens, AT&T, Microsoft, and Bank of America, also supported Charlotte’s vote.

Opponents of Charlotte’s efforts often attack the part of the ordinance that allows transgender people to use the restroom that corresponds to their gender identity. But that protection in no way changes the rules that govern behavior in the restroom or removes laws against public exposure or assault. It simply offers basic protections for everyone using the restroom, including transmen and transwomen who want only to use a restroom safely and in peace.

Regardless, opponents in the General Assembly and Gov. Pat McCrory have vowed to retaliate against Charlotte for making its city more welcoming, inclusive and safe. Hours before its passage, McCrory said Charlotte’s vote would “most likely cause immediate state legislative intervention.”

Some have tried arguing that North Carolina cities don’t have the authority to pass such ordinances. However, state law gives local governments substantial power to issue ordinances that govern a host of local matters. Charlotte is exercising its legitimate authority to provide all residents and visitors in the Queen City with equal treatment and access to public accommodations. It should be applauded for doing so, especially in the face of bullying threats from state officials who should respect such decisions by local governments.

In the words of Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts, council members approved the protections because, “We want to do what’s right for the community; we want to do what helps make people feel safe and included and accepted.” Bravo, Charlotte. : :

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news

NDO Update

Republicans threaten special session over Charlotte LGBT ordinance Gov. Pat McCrory prefers to wait until regular legislative session

by Jeff Taylor :: qnotes staff

RALEIGH, N.C. — Republican lawmakers gathered for a press conference on March 3, where they called on Atty. Gen. Roy Cooper to take action against Charlotte, N.C.’s expanded non-discrimination ordinance (NDO). They may call a $42,000 a day special session to deal with the issue. The protections allowing transgender individuals to use the bathrooms and locker rooms matching their gender identity seems to be the one main point of contention.

“We’re here today to discuss these very troubling developments that have occurred in Charlotte and the Charlotte City Council, when they decided to thrust themselves into the spotlight and pass a radical ordinance that does away with single-sex restrooms,” Sen. Buck Newton said, despite the fact that the ordinance does not, in fact, do away with men and women’s restrooms.

Speaker Tim Moore also recently announced that there was at least three-fifths support from the House for a special session, which Moore says “poses an imminent risk to public safety.”

Cooper pointed out in a statement that the NDO “can’t trump criminal law,” adding,

“District attorneys can prosecute criminals just as always. This news conference is, at best, a partisan political sideshow for an attorney general candidate, and worse, it’s misleading North Carolinians about how the law actually works.”

“Today’s press conference was just another ploy to use the LGBT community as a pawn in their political games,” said Equality NC Executive Chris Sgro in a statement. “Calling on Attorney General Roy Cooper to take action against the ordinance was merely an attempt to gain crass political points at the cost of countless members of the LGBT community statewide. Assault and being a peeping tom in public accommodations is already illegal and will remain illegal under the ordinance.”

The special session would have to be called by Gov. Pat McCrory, who has spoken out against the transgender portion of the expanded ordinance, calling it “government overreach.” He is not in favor of calling a special session, wishing instead to wait until they reconvene on April 25. The ordinance goes into effect April 1. While he may feel it best to wait, he has acknowledged that they may meet earlier to intervene on the issue.

Republican lawmakers at a press conference about the Charlotte LGBT non-discrimination ordinance.

Photo Credit: Video still via The Charlotte Observer.

Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts tweeted her reaction to the news.

“Discrimination is never right. Shocked #ncga is considering hurting job growth and tourism in NC. Hope cooler heads prevail,” the tweet read.

“We have to compete with cities like Atlanta, Columbia, Charleston, Myrtle

Beach, Tampa. All these folks have had these ordinances in place to show they are welcoming and they want to attract talent from all over the world. It is my hope that Charlotte will be able to continue to do that, to show we are a 21st century city that is welcoming and open to all,” she added on the night of March 3. : :

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Additionally, board members assemble the grants and Adam Festival committees and more. info: adamfoundation.org.

Pride fest date announced

Tent Witness hits N.C.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Pride WinstonSalem has set the date for its festival, parade and food truck rodeo on Oct. 15.

The event is the single largest LGBT one in the Triad, reaching over 15,000 individuals.

The official kickoff 2nd Annual Turnabout Drag Show Fundraiser will take place on March 19, 10 p.m., at Club Snap, 1001 Burke St. Board members will take to the stage to entertain the audience.

Organizers are currently seeking drag show and festival, et. al., sponsorships, volunteers and vendors.

Sponsors benefit local small businesses, as well as large ones. Information is available online. Of course, no event is ever successful without the efforts of its volunteers. And, vendors help to bring a sense of community to the festival. info: pridews.org.

Triangle Film screening announced GARNER, N.C. — Former United Methodist Church (UMC) minister Jimmy Creech will join UM Pastor Mike Tupper’s Tent Witness first church trial commemoration on March 11, 11:30 a.m., at the North Carolina United Methodist Conference offices, 700 Waterfield Ridge Pl., where a press conference will take place.

The date was selected to coincide with Raleigh, N.C. native Creech’s first day of his trial in 1998 as a UMC pastor for officiating at a same-sex wedding service. A year later a second trial was held that removed his ministerial credentials forever. Creech was the first UM pastor charged and tried by the church, and is the only pastor whose credentials of ordination were withdrawn by the church for conducting a same-sex wedding.

Tupper pitched a tent in the snow on Nov. 30, 2015, in Michigan and is sleeping outside until the General Conference meets in May where Reconciling United Methodists will call on the denomination to embrace LGBT inclusion. The goal of the Tent Witness is to raise awareness of the discrimination that is still in place in The United Methodist Church against LGBT individuals and pastors who want to be fully in ministry with them, Creech shared.

“I am doing this for my daughter Sarah,” said Rev. Tupper who officiated at her same-sex wedding 18 months ago. This past July he officiated at the same-sex wedding of the Rev. Benjamin and Monty Hutchison. Complaints were filed against Tupper after both weddings.

The second case is still pending and could end up at a church trial. info: umc.org.

Charlotte It’s bus party time

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Buff Faye’s 7th Annual St. Patty’s Get Lucky Party Bus will hit the road on March 11, 8 p.m. sharp, from Bar at 316, 316 Rensselear Ave., visiting local LGBT-friendly bars.

Participants will be able to enjoy fellowship, along with the company of Buff Faye and drag divas Ava Laveau and Paige Sanderson.

Passengers’ door covers are free for the entire evening. On one of the stops, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season seven’s Pearl will be performing at 12 a.m. Additionally, Andrew Christian models Topher and Matt will be on the last stop of the night.

Tickets are $20/advance online and $25/at the door. Space is limited. Check for availability.

Proceeds go to support Campus Pride. info: campuspride.org/partybus.

Triad Movie screening approaching

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Out at the Movies Winston-Salem will screen “4th Man Out” on March 12, 7 p.m., at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts ACE Theatre

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Complex, 1533 S. Main St. The film is a portrait of a small town “bromance” as a car mechanic comes out to his unsuspecting friends. It is a story of acceptance and finding one’s way in life.

Tickets are $7/general and $6/seniors and are available in the lobby beginning at 6:15 p.m. Cash, checks and credit/debit cards are accepted for payment. info: outatthemovieswinstonston.org.

Church founder honored

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Metropolitan Community Church of Winston-Salem will honor the life and memory of Bob Horton on March 13, 3 p.m., at 4105 Patsy Dr., with a Celebration of Life.

Horton’s vision, faith and dedication to the church helped in its formative years .

The service will include both word and song. A reception in the fellowship hall follows. info:mccwschurch.com.

Foundation seeks board members

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Adam Foundation is currently seeking interested parties who are interested in volunteering their time serving on the board.

Board meetings are held once a month.

RALEIGH, N.C. — “Gen Silent” will be shown on March 18, 7 p.m., at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St. The screening is an Allies Group event.

The documentary follows the lives of six LGBT seniors living in the Boston area who must decide if they will hide their sexuality in order to survive in the long-term health care system.

The title of the film is a reference to the generations of older LGBT people who remain in the closet or re-enter the closet out of concern for their safety or quality of life.

A discussion follows. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

Youth org revitalized

DURHAM, N.C. — Upsidedown, the youth group for those under 12-years-old who are gender-non-conforming, transgender or gender variant, has rebooted its efforts.

Meetings are slated every other Sunday from 2-4 p.m., at an undisclosed location.

Upcoming dates are: March 20, April 3 and 17, May 1, 15 and 29. Email insideoutamy@gmail. com to learn more.

Director Amy Glaser said, “At Upsidedown, we create space that is respectful of everyone, where youth … can connect, have fun and change the world.” They decide what projects and activities to do together. In the past they have had ice cream parties, gone to Frankie’s Fun Park, made yard signs protesting Amendment One, created an educational video about starting Gay-Straight Alliances, and more.

Glaser added that ehe group falls under the umbrella of iNSIDEoUT180, a self-led, youthfounded organization by and for LGBTQIS+ teens. info: insideout180.org.

Org hosts ride

CARRBORO, N.C. — Planned Parenthood South Atlantic will hold its Third Annual Ride for Choice benefit on April 17, 1 p.m., beginning at Par Cycles, 403 W. Weaver St. Cyclists will take to the road, taking in a scenic ride around Orange and Alamance Counties. Two ride lengths are available, either 24 or 54 miles, each with rest stops and emergency support along the route.

After the ride, participants can enjoy a beer and bratwurst and other treats at the Open Eye Cafe, 101 S. Greensboro St. Tickets are limited, so expedient online reservation bookings are encouraged. The first 100 to register will receive a pair of Ride for Choice socks. Tickets range from $35-$500, depending upon length of run and options that include the party. Email mitchell.price@ppsat. org to learn more. info/reservations: bit.ly/1R2hjxA

Western Magazine submissions requested

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — OurVOICE and the University of North Carolina at Asheville are currently accepting submissions of art, poetry, drama and prose by survivors of sexual violence.

Pieces can focus on any topic. Those which address the intersection of race, class, gender and/or sexuality are encouraged. Due date for submissions is March 25. Visit bit.ly/1ROwcR9 to join in the project. Publication date is slated for April as a way to honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Readings from submissions will take place On April 22, 7 p.m., at Malaprop’s Bookstore/ Cafe, 55 Haywood St. info:ourvoicenc.org.

Wedding expo booked

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The LGBT Wedding Conference and Expo will take place on April 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Doubletree by Hilton Asheville-Biltmore, 115 Hendersonville Rd. This three part event will feature a conference with panels and guest speakers addressing marriage and commitment within the LGBT community. Secondly, there will be an expo featuring Asheville’s LGBT-friendly wedding vendors. Additionally, there will be a group commitment ceremony where couples can marry or renew their vows to one another followed by a reception. The American Red Cross will also be on site for a blood drive.

The event, sponsored by Blue Ridge Pride Center and partners, is open to all members of the LGBT community and allies. Tickets are $9.39 each and are available online. info/tickets: bit.ly/1W2dAhN.

Activist mounts campaign

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Jasmine BeachFerrara, executive director of the Campaign for Southern Equality, is running for a District 1 seat on the Buncombe County Commission.

She was one of the driving forces in the same-sex marriage battle across the South, as well as working across North Carolina to strike down Amendment One. Campaign sources said that Beach-Ferrara was told that it would take her decades to change the discriminatory law, but she believed in North Carolina and the fight for justice. “And she was right,” they added. info: jasmineforbuncombe.org.

Center adds ‘smile’

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Blue Ridge Pride Center has recently partnered with the AmazonSmile Foundation. This arrangement provides a way for supporters to support the center with little or no additional out-of-pocket costs.

Customers with Amazon visit the AmazonSmile website where they are able to

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choose from the same products as the standard one. At checkout, 0.5 percent of purchase pricing goes to the center on price eligible sales.

To sign up, visit smile.amazon.com and earmark the center as the charity of choice.

In other news, the center is still seeking contributions toward their special fund created to gather monies to offset last year’s shortfall on the rain-soaked Pride celebration. info: blueridgepride.org.

Purse registration opens

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The 12th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon will be held on May 24, 12 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Asheville, Expo Center, 1 Resort Dr. It is presented by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC).

Featured speaker will be Dr. Mae Jemison, who is a NASA astronaut, physician and educator. She flew on the 1992 Space Shuttle Endeavor’s STS-47, a cooperative mission between the U.S. and Japan.

While onboard, she performed experiments in material and life sciences and human adaptation to weightlessness.

Prior to her work with NASA, Jemison was an area Peace Corps medical officer for Sierra Leone and Liberia. She earned her M.D. from

Cornell University and practiced medicine in Los Angeles, Calif. She is currently leading the 100 Year Starship, an initiative exploring human interstellar space travel and is the founder and president of two medical technology companies.

Sponsors and patrons will have the opportunity to enjoy coffee with Jemison at 10:30 a.m.

During the event, the 2016 Women for Women grants will be announced. Proceeds from the luncheon benefit The Women’s Fund endowment which supports the needs of the region’s women and girls.

CFWNC’s Lindsay Hearn shared that the organization provides all individuals equal employment and selection opportunities regardless of age, race, national origin, ethnicity, color, sex, disability, religious belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation or any other basis prohibited by law. The personnel program of The Community Foundation is established and administered in a non-discriminatory manner in accordance with federal, state and local laws and regulations and the foundation is also committed to providing a work environment that is free from any form of discrimination or harassment. The foundation does not tolerate sexual harassment or harassment on the basis of age, race, national origin, ethnicity, color, sex, disability, religious belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political orientation or other basis protected by law.

Tickets are $75/individual and $150/patron.

Registration is available online. info:cfwnc.org.

news

South Carolina Takeover heads north

CONWAY, S.C. — Takeover Grand Strand will take their group on the road on March 13 when they visit “Illusions On Main Street” at Theatre of the Republic, 337 Main St. The show starts at 3 p.m. and includes the talents of celebrity impersonator Michael L. Waters as Dame Edna, along with Leah Halston, Judy Simmons, Roxy LaRouge and The Real Housewives of Myrtle Beach.

Tickets are $20 and are available online. info: takeovergrandstrand.com. theatreoftherepublic.com.

Coastal org goes orange

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston Pride will “Paint the Town Orange” on March 29, 9:30 p.m., at Tabbuli Grill, 6 N. Market St. The Pride Emperor Chaz Striker and Empress Justine van de Blair will be on hand featuring a lineup of favorite drag queen performers during the fundraising event, including Symone N. O’Bishop, Jaisee Alexander, Desiree Valentino, Demi Valentino, Mercy Madison and Venus Alexander.

The organization is painting Charleston with all the colors of the rainbow leading up to its Pride celebration from Aug. 6-14. info: charlestonpride.org.

Have news or other information? Send your press releases and updates for inclusion in our News Notes: editor@goqnotes.com.

March 11-24 . 2016

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news notes: u.s./world compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

TSA body scans denounced by LGBT groups

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Center for Transgender Equality, Lambda Legal and the American Civil Liberties Union’s LGBT & HIV Project, denounced the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s decision to codify its use of full body scanners in a final rule. Ordered to review the program by a federal appeals court five years ago, TSA said that it will make no changes in airport security and denied there is any impact on travelers’ privacy.

The move comes months after the TSA’s head was ousted following an audit in which scanners and pat-downs failed to catch weapons or mock explosives in 95 percent of “secret shopper”

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tests. In recent months, TSA has admitted that the scanners routinely trigger alarms based solely on transgender people’s body parts, leading to widely-publicized incidents where travelers were forced to discuss their genitalia with TSA officers.

LGBT organizations have heard from hudreds of transgender travelers in the U.S. who were asked to lift or remove clothing to reveal undergarments or prosthetics, required to undergo multiple pat-downs and questions about their bodies, and even prevented from boarding flights because of a “groin alarm.”

“It is completely unacceptable to require Americans to discuss their genitals with uni-

formed government officials in order to travel by air,” said NCTE Executive Director Mara Keisling.

Introduced in 2008, a federal appeals court declared the TSA’s use of the machines unlawful in 2011 because the agency acted without formal rules or public comment on a matter affecting tens of millions of people. The court allowed the program to continue in part because TSA promised travelers could always opt for a thorough patdown instead — a position the agency reversed in December. Despite numerous court petitions by organizations including NCTE, and comments from thousands of air travelers, TSA took five more years to adopt this court-ordered rule, which makes no changes in the current program.

LGBT and privacy organizations have consistently urged TSA to reconsider its approach to security, limiting use of body scanners and pat-downs and making more use of metal detectors and explosive trace detection. Advocates also urged TSA to codify its current promises regarding passenger rights into the rule, which the agency also refused to do. Still, TSA declined to make any changes in the current program. info: transequality.org.

EEOC files anti-gay discrimination suits

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced that it has filed two lawsuits that allege anti-gay discrimination, the Equality Federation reported.

In an ABC network report, one suit is against Scott Medical Health Center, Philadelphia, Pa., and the other IFCO Systems NA, Baltimore, Md. The Scott suit cites that a “gay employee quit after his manager used gay slurs.” The IFCO one

news

relates to a lesbian employee’s firing post complaint against her supervisor’s comments “regarding her sexual orientation and appearance.”

A 2015 EEOC ruling relative to a federal employee’s complaint said that anti-gay discrimination “is a form of sex discrimination that violates the 1964 Civil Rights Act.” It has ruled previously in another case that “discrimination based on a person’s gender identity or expression is similarly prohibited.” That case was brought by the Transgender Law Center. info: equalityfederation.org. eeoc.gov.

RuPaul headlines new gay game show

NEW YORK, N.Y. — It seems that RuPaul Charles is expanding his horizons as he is set to star in and executive produce Logo’s new “Gay for Play Game Show Starring RuPaul,” which airs on April 11 at 10 p.m.

The formula for the televised show that is shot in front of a live audience, tests contestants’ entertainment IQs with quizzes on hot pop culture moments, the network said. The humorous questions can be answered by the contestant outright or they can turn to the celebrity “Gay for Play” panel for assistance. Then as the competition heats up, contestants pair up with one celebrity panelist and have 69 seconds to answer as many trivia questions as possible for a chance to win big cash and prizes.

The panel of six celebrities features Michelle Visage, Todrick Hall, Carson Kressley and Ross Mathews as regular panelists, along with a rotating panel of former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestants, social influencers and

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life

Staying in the closet Five reasons it can damage your mental & physical health

by Julia Fox :: guest contributor

While a major hurdle for LGBT rights in the Western Hemisphere has finally been overcome in the past few years (legalization of gay marriage in both the United States and the United Kingdom), it looks less and less hopeful that same tolerance can be achieved globally.

In former Communist bloc countries, the period for modest LGBT freedoms was brief, and homophobia is still widespread. Homosexuality is often considered an abnormality and in some cases, prosecuted under the criminal law.

These countries have a vast population of LGBT members who have lived in the closet for most of their lives, while obliged to form traditional families. Spending the majority of their lives attempting to pass as heterosexuals to gain social approval and often engaging in secret same-sex relationships, these gay men and women end up with irreversible damage to their physical and mental health.

“Coming out is no longer a matter of popular debate, but a matter of public health,” claim scientists from Louis H. Lafontaine Hospital in Montreal, Canada (see bit.ly/21HY6X2). But for some who spent most of their lives in the closet, it might be just impossible. Whether it is the fear of being rejected by their now grown

children, being criminalized by the homophobic society or ostracized by their own community, or the strong belief they would be unable to rebuild their lives with their new identity, these men and women are too broken to start anew.

Here are the main ailments that are likely to develop if you are forced to keep your sexual identity a secret from society and often from yourself: 1. Dissociative Identity Disorder. Notable psychiatrists Sullivan and Roughton (see bit. ly/1p2Mo8t) have discovered that closeted individuals routinely separate their attractions and feelings for the persons of the same sex from their identity. That means these men and women find their desires so unacceptable that they keep them out of their conscious awareness, separating their sexual identity from the rest of their persona.

Blocking the anxiety-provoking thoughts about their sexuality forces them to lead a double life and are very often unaware of it.

2. Chronic depression. Increased fear and withdrawal from friends and relatives and the chronic stress of hiding one’s sexuality can lead to excess amounts of cortisol in the body, which contributes to severe depression, as well as the general “wear and tear” of the body. Scientists at the Centre for Studies on Human Stress (see bit. ly/1TTCWAv) at Louis H. Lafontaine Hospital in Montreal found that staying in the closet weakens your whole immune system in addition to leading to chronic depression.

3. Self-disgust and self-hatred.

Socialized into thinking that being non-heterosexual is somehow “mad,’” “bad,” “wrong” or “immoral,” many closeted gay and lesbian individuals develop internalized homophobia. They find that they do not belong and do not fit in either the “straight world’” nor the “gay world.” This painful feeling often leads to self-disgust, self-hatred and contempt for the more open LGBT members.

4. Low self-esteem and negative self-view.

Both can lead to avoiding fulfilling relationships with others. Spending the majority of their lives attempting to pass as heterosexu-

als to gain social approval, many closeted individuals develop low self-esteem and negative body image, which brings with them such issues as fear of intimacy, deep shame about their sexual experiences and inability to develop emotional intimacy, psychologists claim (see bit.ly/1Y7v9OK).

5. A lcohol/drug-abuse and suicidal thoughts.

Growing increasingly withdrawn and depressed, closeted individuals often follow unsafe sexual practices and engage in other destructive, risk-taking behaviors. Being ostracized by the community, fearing shame and physical torture and imprisonment, creating heterosexual families and dissociating themselves from gay population altogether leads many to a life of substance abuse and addictions. Constantly haunted by suicidal thoughts, many consider ending their lives.

My relationship with a closeted gay man, Sasha (who was actually my husband’s lover years before I married him and I chronicle in my memoir, “And Then There Were Three: Sixty-Seven Letters to Sasha,” opened my eyes to the many aspects of homosexuality and the life paths that LGBT men and women choose in the parts of the world where homosexuality is still considered an abnormality. The freedoms that sexual minorities enjoy in democratic countries today are precious and unheard of in such places as the Ukraine, Russia, Belorussia, Azerbaijan and other post-Soviet territories. Giving American LGBT members a glimpse into the lives of those who are less fortunate and still struggling for their rights will be an eye-opening read for many. : : — Julia Fox immigrated from Russia in her late teens, settling in the U.S. in the early 1990s. She published two books of poetry before leaving her home country, both in Russian, and published two more in English after immigrating. For more information about Fox, visit juliegfox.com.

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news

U.S./World News Notes continued from page 14 celebrities. Guest panelists throughout the season include model Amber Rose, Brandi Glanville (“Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”), Cheyenne Jackson (“American Horror Story”), Daniel Franzese (“Looking,” “Mean Girls”), Frankie Grande (“Big Brother”), comedian Heather McDonald, Jeannie Mai (“The Real”), Kristen Johnston (“The Exes”), Mindy Cohn (“Facts of Life”), plus social talent Austin & Aaron Rhodes (“Scream Queens”), GloZell Green, Joey Graceffa, Kingsley, Kyle Krieger and Connor Franta.

Special episodes also feature celebrity contestants squaring off. Rebecca Romijn will battle husband Jerry O’Connell to fight for “Gay for Play” bragging rights. Former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” cast member Taylor Armstrong and “Real Housewives of O.C.” cast member Gretchen Rossi will challenge each other, as well as reunited “227” stars Marla Gibbs and Jackée Harry.

The show premiered on March 7 following “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” which celebrated the series’ 100th episode. info: logotv.com.

QUICK HITS —————————————————————————————— discredited claims that it can change an indiOn May 7 in Washington, D.C., the American vidual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

Military Partner Association will honor info: hrc.org. nclrights.org. splcenter.org.

Supreme Court marriage equality cases plaintiffs Edie Windsor and Jim Obergefell.

The Center for American Progress has reported info:militarypartners.org. that the criminal justice system targets and harms LGBT prisoners disproportionately. Data A study by The Everest Project of some of the shows how LGBT people — and particularly most senior-level female executives in U.S. corLGBT people of color — face higher rates of porate cultures, which details the influences in incarceration and unfair treatment and abuse today’s global economy, has been released. Of in the criminal justice system. the 392 interviews culled, 132 identify as black, info: americanprogress.org.

Hispanic, LGBT, Pan Asian or White. info: everestproject.org.

Viceland TV premiered its first episode of “Gaycation” on March 2. It stars Ellen Page The Human Rights Campaign, the National and Ian Daniel who set off to explore LGBTQ Center for Lesbian Rights and the Southern cultures around the world.

Poverty Law Center filed a federal consumer info: vice.com. fraud complaint against People Can Change, an organization that preys on vulnerable LGBT The National LGBTQ Task Force is celebrating people and families by using damaging and Bisexual Health Awareness Month during March. info: thetaskforce.org. bihealthmonth.org.

The Arch and Bruce Brown Foundation is accepting submissions for its 2016 Playwriting Competition until May 31. Only full-length works are eligible for consideration and must concern LGBT or genderqueer life and must be based on, or directly inspired by, a historical person, culture, work of art, or event. info: aabbfoundation.org.

The National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund and the National Center for Transgender Equality praised Gov. Dennis Daugaard of South Dakota when he vetoed a bill that would have put restrictions on transgender and gender non-conforming students’ access to school restrooms and locker rooms. info: taskforceactionfund.org. transequality.org.

GLAAD has released its “Debunking the ‘Bathroom Bill’ Myth — Accurate Reporting on LGBT Nondiscrimination: A Guide for Journalists” in collaboration with a coalition of state and national LGBT advocacy organizations. info: glaad.org.

The National Hispanic Leadership Agenda released its quadrennial Hispanic Public Policy Agenda which outlines the policy concerns and priorities of the nation’s Latino community.

Recommendations outlined include those of the LGBT community as they relate to presidential candidates and federal policymakers. info:nationalhispanicleadership.org.

Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), the legal organization that has fought for LGBT and HIV rights for nearly 40 years, has announced a new name: GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). info: glad.org.

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We want your news and event notices today. We also welcome your letters to the editor (200 or words or less) and guest commentaries (600 words or less). Be sure to send them to editor@goqnotes.com. Thank you!

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March 11-24 . 2016

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Leading Ladies

‘Let’s hear it for the girls…’

Queer and queer-friendly women who make a difference in the Carolinas

by Nick de la Canal :: qnotes contributor

Q

ueer women have plenty of reasons to celebrate this year. A recent report published by the United Nations found that across the globe, there are more girls enrolling in school, more women holding jobs and more women getting elected and assuming leadership positions than ever before in recorded history.

All said, there’s still work to be done — Women on average still make $0.76 to every $1 made by men, and another recent report by the University of Southern California (USC) found women make up only a third of all speaking characters in film and television.

In this issue of qnotes, we’re taking the time to recognize queer and queer-friendly women who are making a difference locally. So take a seat, men — this one’s for the ladies.

Janice Covington Allison

Mayor Jennifer Roberts marched in the Charlotte Pride Parade and has been an outspoken allied champion of the LGBT community.

Janice Covington Allison may be the most visible transgender person in the Charlotte region. She has a long history of speaking out for LGBT rights in the Carolinas, including becoming the first openly transgender person to serve as a Democratic delegate from North Carolina at the Democratic National Convention held in Charlotte in 2012. She is also the first transgender person to serve on the board of the Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County, having been sworn in this past January. She’s spoken at countless universities and Pride events in support of LGBT rights, and last year, she ran for the North Carolina Democratic party chair, but ultimately lost to rival Patsy Keever. She may be best known, however, for an incident that took place in 2015 when the city first took up the issue of extending the non-discrimination ordinance.

During that city council meeting, Allison had to get a police escort from a women’s restroom while another trans teen was simultaneously stopped and confronted by anti-LGBT protesters after leaving another women’s restroom. The incidents incited strong reactions from both sides of the debate. This year, Allison was back at city council, delivering a passionate speech at the Feb. 22 meeting in support of expanding protections to LGBT people. : :

Photo Credit: Robert Lahser. The Charlotte Observer.

Crystal Richardson is front and center when it comes to advocating for causes for which she has passion.

Jennifer Roberts

Jennifer Roberts became the first democratic woman to be elected mayor of Charlotte, N.C., last year when she beat Republican Edwin Peacock III. She’s not gay or transgender herself, but Roberts has proved a strong ally to Charlotte’s LGBT community.

She campaigned with a promise to revive Charlotte’s failed LGBT non-discrimination ordinance bill, and this month, did just that, pushing city council to approve the ordinance in a historic 7-4 vote, despite threats from Gov. Pat McCrory that doing so would invoke backlash from the state. Roberts also makes regular appearances at LGBT fundraisers and events throughout the city. This year she attended the annual White Party, which raises funds for the Time Out Youth Center, and the Human Rights Campaign North Carolina Gala, where she delivered the welcome address. Speaking to the Charlotte Observer’s editorial board last month, Roberts said, “we want to do what’s right for the community; we want to do what helps make people feel safe and included and accepted.” Roberts has received countless honors for her work in public service, among them the Maya Angelou Women Who Lead award. : :

Photo Credit: Twitter

Crystal Richardson

Janice Covington Allison is an outspoken trans advocate and is engaged in the political process.

Photo Credit: Personal archives

No stranger to LGBT advocacy work in the Carolinas, Crystal Richardson has proven herself time and again as one of the region’s best LGBT advocates and organizers. Still in her early 30s, Richardson has a resume about as long as the signature tightlywound braids that fall around her shoulders. She is currently the director of advocacy and outreach for Equality NC, and previously, she worked as an organizer for Equality NC in partnership with the NAACP. Most recently, she wrapped up her year as a co-chair on the 2016 Human Rights Campaign North Carolina Gala, and before that, she worked with the Freedom Center for Social Justice Law Center. She also remains an active member of the ACLU-Charlotte LGBT team and serves on the board of MeckPAC as its secretary.

In an interview she gave with qnotes in 2014, Richardson said her interest in advocacy work started when she attended a Charlotte School of Law Symposium about Amendment One, and a friend there introduced her to MeckPAC and the HRC. We’re sure glad she did, and can’t wait to see what she does next. : :

Melissa Morris

Melissa Morris had been serving as vice president of external affairs for Charlotte’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce until two weeks ago, when the group’s president, Chad Seaverace-Turner, resigned amid attacks from the NC Values Coalition. Morris assumed the position and now stands to lead one of Charlotte’s most notable LGBT business advocacy groups. Last month, the Chamber was honored by the Human Rights Campaign as North Carolina’s organization of the year. Morris is now tasked with maintaining the Chamber’s image after the last president’s exit. It’s a position she’s well-trained for — Morris has a strong background in advocacy and community work. Last August, she co-moderated an LGBT-focused candidate forum with LGBT blogger and former qnotes editor Matt Comer, grilling mayoral and city council candidates on a host of issues ranging from the nondiscrimination ordinance to community outreach to LGBT homelessness and more. Before moving to Charlotte, she was the campaign manager for the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania and oversaw a statewide campaign advocating for marriage equality there. She’s the first AfricanAmerican woman to lead the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce. : : Melissa Morris has been on the forefront of activism for many years and most recently has taken on the role of president of the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

Photo Credit: Facebook

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life

Rev. Nancy Allison, Rev. Nancy Kraft and Rev. Robin Tanner continue to be supportive of the LGBT community. All of the ministers were part of a suit that was filed that petitioned for the right for samesex couples to marry. It won in 2014.

Photo Credits: church photo archives

Rev. Nancy Allison, Rev. Nancy Kraft, Rev. Robin Tanner

This holy trinity of female clergy members will be remembered for issuing the first faith-based legal argument in favor of same-sex marriage back in 2014. Rev. Nancy Allison of Holy Covenant United Church of Christ, Rev. Nancy Kraft of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and Rev. Robin Tanner of Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church, all filed suit against North Carolina arguing that state prohibitions, including the controversial Amendment One, infringed on their freedom of religion. Speaking to the Charlotte Observer in 2014, Allison said, “North Carolina judges some of its citizens as unfit for the blessings of God. We reject that notion.” The pastors furthered their argument in the lawsuit, writing, “By denying same-sex couples the right to marry and prohibiting religious denominations even from performing marriage ceremonies for same-sex couples, the State of North Carolina stigmatizes same-sex couples, as well as the religious institutions and clergy that believe in equal rights.” The pastors never did get a chance to make their case in front of a live judge, though, because just a few months later, a U.S. district court judge effectively struck down Amendment One, making gay marriage legal in North Carolina. : :

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Rising Star qnotes has selected Ashley Williams as one of the many youth activists who are poised to lead the next generation for our Leading Ladies coverage. Her grit has earned her this early nod in her advocacy life.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Ashley Williams

This Charlotte-based young activist made national headlines last month when she interrupted a private fundraiser for Hillary Clinton in Charleston, S.C., and held up a sign with a quote from Clinton that read, “We have to bring them to heel.” The quote referenced a speech Clinton made in the 1990s in which she repeated the theory of “super-predators,” a term used by researchers trying to explain the rise in violent crimes committed by youth, and often used in reference to young, urban African-Americans. The term has since been criticized for its coded racial language comparing minorities to animals. Williams drew jeers and hisses from the Clinton crowd, and she was quickly escorted out of the event. She later gave an interview with the Washington Post. “As a black queer person, I understand how I don’t always get to be in control of how I’m perceived in spaces,” Williams said, “So I’m not surprised I was told that I was being rude.” Whether you agree with her politics or not, Williams, 23, is one young activist we’ll want to keep watching. : :

Ashley Williams is a young activist who has extended a rally call for the AfricanAmerican community.

Photo Credit: Personal archives

Do you know a Leading Lady that deserves notice for the works that she does? Let us know by emailing editor@goqnotes.com, or visit us online at goqnotes.com/42348 and leave us a comment there.

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tell trinity

by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com

Defining boundaries and stopping blasphemy Hello Trinity, Someone I’m dating and really love has tendencies to say the wrong thing at the wrong time.

It’s not only embarrassing, it shows a lack of character in both of us. How do I teach boundaries to someone who has no clue?

BoundQueries, Minneapolis, MN Hello BoundQueries, Boundaries are something we acquire with time, education, wisdom and common sense.

And when it comes to boundaries, I (at least) try these four golden rules: 1) keep unkind words short, 2) keep kind words sincere, 3) keep your mouth shut around strangers and, darling, lastly, 4) only speak well of the dead.

Betty Davis once said, “I only speak good of the dead. Joan Crawford is dead. Good!”

Hey Trinity, Being a religious person, I cannot help but be upset over the pedophilia problems in the church. Do you think there is any way to save faith within the priesthood?

Church Chat, Cleveland, OH

goqnotes.com

Hey Church Chat, I don’t have much to say except men are beasts, with a biological drive to toss their seed. Some are strong enough to control their

desires, but there is still this “desire” which the priesthood must face. Now, toss in the body’s physical need for affection plus add in an over-sexed Western media to the fornication, I mean formula, and you have the makings of a pedophilia/celibacy dilemma beneath religious robes. Allowing priests to have healthy relationships and/or to celebrate their sexual desires may be the answer. Honey, I guess I did have something to say! (My cartoon addresses this very issue, so take a look at it to gain lofty and well-thoughtout insight.)

Dearest Trinity, I have no trouble with dating, but I think waiting for someone special is the right way to meet someone. Forced dating seems so fake. Am I alone in this thought?

Date-O-Wait, Seattle, WA Dearest Date-O-Wait, It has been said that if you work hard for what you want, you should get what you wish for, eventually, hopefully…well anyway the key word is “work!” When it comes to dating, meeting someone or even life itself, you really are better off working towards your dreams and desires rather than sitting and hoping and you get the idea, sweetie. It’s good to be patient, but try acting like a busy patient!

a&e

Dear Trinity, How do you know when you have a healthy sex life versus when you’re overly promiscuous?

PromisCurious, Nashville, TN Dear PromisCurious, That question not only deserves one answer but at least 10: Trinity’s Sleazy Tips For Knowing If You’re A PIG (Promiscuous Indiscriminate Gorilla) 1. When you have multiple sex partners, multiple times a week and you don’t get paid for it, PIG! 2. So you have syphilis again, no problem. But when you have sex while taking penicillin, PIG! 3. When your glands are swollen from overuse and you have no jewelry to show for it, PIG! 4. S taying out late, cruising for “whatever” and sleeping with whomever does not make you a total PIG unless you’re an insatiable PIG! 5. I f you try to keep a lover and can’t, but still need sex and thus sleep around to fulfill your needs, then you’re a practical PIG! 6. P IGs are not bad, wrong or dirty for being PIGs unless, of course, you boast, are unkind or never grow out of being a PIG! 7. You’re not a PIG for having sex 20 different times a year, but when it all occurs in the same month, then you’re, “PIG Of The Month”!

8. So you keep in contact with and genuinely love your many sexual partners, still a PIG! 9. Sex a few times a week is normal, every other day, extremely healthy. But if you’re not trying to stick with the same mate, PIG! 10. Lastly, when you can’t remember who, where, why or how many, then you’re not only a PIG but you have a big PIG problem! : : info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org.

Learn more at telltrinity.com.

daily news, blog posts and lgbt community event listings Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter: goqnotes.com/subs

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EVENTS

Submit your event to our calendar!

You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a three-forone entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes.com), Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce (clgbtcc.org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

Month-Month 2016 Continues through March 20 SEP MAR MO Charlotte Ballet: ‘Little Mermaid’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 430 S Tryon St., Charlotte Varying times Charlotte Ballet presents the underwater world of “Little Mermaid,” the Hans Christian Anderson fairytale, with choreography from Mark Diamond. The Little Mermaid falls for a handsome prince and matches wits with the evil Sea Witch, all with the help of her collection of silly sea friends. New this year, attendees can purchase meet-and-greet tickets to join the stars of the show after the performance for a reception, autographs and a picture taking with the performers.

Tickets begin at $25. More information and tickets are available online. blumenthalarts.org.

Genderfusion Variety Show Petra’s 1919 Commonwealth Ave., Charlotte 7 p.m.

The Genderfusion variety show will feature DJs, live bands, dancing, games, lip synch battles, movies and more. The theme of the night is that those from every walk of life can come together and enjoy each other’s company and celebrate life and community. Proceeds go to benefit Transcend Charlotte to continue their work for the LGBTQIA community. $10 cover, 21 and up. transcendcharlotte.com.

Continues through March 19 Charleston Fashion Week Marion Square Downtown Charleston Varying times Charleston Fashion Week is a fivenight event featuring 40 runway shows, plus a number of other events, including the Emerging Designer Competition: East, the Spring Bridal Show, interactive entertainment, after-parties and press events.

Charleston Fashion Week has helped launch the careers of many designers and models and is one of the more highly anticipated fashion events in the Southeast. Tickets range from $20 for single events and up to $1,200 for the all-inclusive Fashion Star Weekly Package. More information and tickets are available online. charlestonfashionweek.com.

2nd Annual Gay & Lesbian SEP MAR MO Wedding Expo Sheraton Charlotte Hotel 555 S. McDowell St., Charlotte 12:30 p.m.

The Rainbow Wedding Network presents the 2nd Annual Gay & Lesbian Wedding Expo, featuring over 30 LGBTfriendly resources to couples getting ready to tie the knot. There will also be live music, raffles and more. Free tickets available online. rainbowweddingnetwork.com samelovesamerights.com.

Vanessa Ferguson Sings SEP MAR MO Nina Simone The Stage Door Theater Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N Tryon St., Charlotte 6 p.m. & 8:15 p.m.

As part of Charlotte’s Jazz Arts Initiative’s Jazz Room series, vocalist Vanessa Ferguson sings the songs of Nina Simone. Two performances will take place, one at 6 p.m. and another at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. More information and tickets are available online. carolinatix.org.

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PFLAG Conference SEP MAR MO Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd., Charlotte 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays will hold its North and South Carolina Conference at Myers Park Baptist Church, which will include keynote speakers and breakout sessions. Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided, and there will be door prizes as well. Tickets are $20. Email Joan Gale for more information at ckpflag@gmail.com. pflag.org.

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LGBTQ Wedding Expo and SEP APR MO Conference DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville-Biltmore 115 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Blue Ridge Pride presents an LGBTQ wedding expo, a brand new event.

Includes three parts: conference, expo and group commitment ceremony. The conference features panels and guest speakers, who will present on legal, family and social issues around same-sex marriage. The expo will feature LGBTfriendly wedding vendors. The group commitment ceremony will allow couples to marry or renew their vows, followed by a reception. Tickets are $9.39. More information and tickets are available online. blueridgepride.org.

PlayMakers Repertory Company –––––––––––––––––––– presents the musical thriller “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Steet,” ‘We Are Family Feud’ Theatre Charlotte a tale of obsession and revenge, with 501 Queens Rd., Charlotte comedic, dramatic and grizzly turns, 7 p.m. with a score by Stephen Sondheim.

It is a “Family Feud” experience unlike The multiple Tony Award-winning any other, with drag emcees Lana Cane play tells the dark tale of a murderous and Mink Shoals. They will bring their barber and his culinary accomplice campy style and fabulous musical numMrs. Lovett. On March 23, PlayMakers bers. The families will be plucked from the will host “The Vision Series-Directors audiences, and will compete in two train Conversation,” a free event which ditional and two fast money rounds. The offers a behind the scenes look at the theatre and the process of a production event is presented by Rosedale Infectious in process. Space is limited, RSVP to the Diseases, benefiting Different Roads Home and Carolinas Care Partnership. box office at 919-962-7529. Tickets for Tickets are $25 and $100 for VIP. More inthe show cost $15-$45. More informaformation and tickets are available online. tion and tickets are available online. differentroadshome.org. playmakersrep.org.

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Continues through April 10, BOOM Festival, Plaza-Midwood Neighborhood, Various Venues & Streets, Charlotte BOOM is Charlotte’s first artist led, annual festival of experimental and performance art. Local performance groups and artists XOXO, Taproot, On Q Productions, Carlos Cruz and Sarah Emery will be joined by additional artists and performers from around the country for around three dozen shows over the weekend. The three main venues will be Open Door Studios, Petra’s and Snug Harbor. Street performances and live music will also take place in and around various other spaces and venues. More information is available online. boomcharlotte.org.

To see more upcoming events, visit goqnotes.com/calendar/

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Continues through April 23 SEP MAR MO ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ Paul Green Theatre 300 Country Club Rd., Chapel Hill Times vary

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dishing with buff faye

by Buff Faye :: qnotes contributor :: info@bufffaye.com

Book me: 10 tips on how to get a drag booking the bar, not scare them away. Also, be sure to “RuPaul Drag Race” Season 8 started on keep your recreational habits to yourself.

March 7. Who would have thought drag would Promote your bookings. I love when I see be so popular? Just look right here in the new drag queens actively promote bookings.

Queen City. More and more drag queens are It causes me to pay attention to who they are. popping up all around.

Engage fans on social media and do your best to Many new faces, on top of the old seasoned get your friends and fans out to see you. If you can faces, are everywhere. It is frankly hard to keep turn out a crowd, you better up — and that’s not believe I’ll move you to the a bad thing. Variety is top of the list and book you. good and so is compeMake a good imprestition to have more talsion. Build a relationship ent and better quality with the show director. shows. But, as show Come out when you’re not director, it can be a in shows and say hello. challenge to rememSmiling and being kind goes ber names, much less a long way. Warning: I have determine who has the had drag queens cancel retalent when booking peatedly or not show up for new ladies. their very first booking. It So take it for what is an awful first impression it is, but here are my and shows that you’re re10 tips for new ladies ally not interested and not (and some older drag dependable. It’s one of the queens) when it Photo Credit: worst things you can do. comes to how to get a ‘Drag Queen with Laser Beams’ Buff Faye on Facebook Keep it fresh. If you’re booking. booked more than once at Be strong. Be a bar or a couple bars, don’t do the same numtrue. Every drag queen has their reasons for bers, hair and outfits over and over. Realize as doing drag. For some it is purely entertainment, a show director, I want something special for others it is a way to explore their identity, some the audience. You can’t rely on the same two it is for charity, pageants — or for others it is to four numbers and expect to be booked again. a mix of all that. There is no right or wrong to Know your lyrics. Duh. why you chose to do drag. Just be sure you Be persistent, but not annoying. After you stay true to yourself. Don’t sell out to be like have asked for a booking via Facebook or email, someone else or capitulate to a bar owner. you may follow up a couple times, but don’t pesDevelop your name, your brand. Find ter a show director. I don’t mind someone kindly a unique, positive way to make a name for checking back in, but there is a limit. Realize yourself. Strive to do something different or there are only so many bookings in a month and be unique. Always consider ways to promote there are drag queens who have been around your brand and be part of the local community. awhile. It is competitive. Don’t take offense, just Volunteer for fundraisers, special community keep trying to build your name and brand. events, do pageants, talent shows, etc. Before This is my advice. I’m sure there are many you can get, you have to give. more tips and expectations from show directors Show off your talent. Be sure to do video on what they look for in booking drag queens, clips of you performing on stage and send particularly new ladies. Some may have very those to show directors when asking for a different feelings. Ask the show director and feel booking. I will not book a new performer unless free to post thoughts and ideas in the comments.

I have seen what they have to offer. Even then, Like I said, there are more drag queens be prepared to share three to five bar locations out there than ever before. Listen to these tips and names of people for references. and remember that bookings are not a right, Invest in your drag. Drag is expensive, they are an earned privilege. Don’t be mad that especially starting out. Plan to spend money you are not being booked. Show me why you before you start making any money. You will deserve it more than someone else. likely not get a booking if you don’t invest in your hair, costumes, pantyhose, jewelry, etc.

DRAG TIP: Say thank you. Show appreciation You need to dress to impress the show director when you get a booking. and the audience. It’s a business for those who get consistent bookings. It’s not just a hobby.

— Buff Faye calls the Queen City her home Be professional. The children are watchand plans to retire making cat memes ing you and listening to what you say and do. (plus she loves to raise money for charities).

Everything you post on Facebook, Snapchat, Find her at your favorite bars and hot spots.

Instagram or Grindr can be seen by a show Plus don’t forget her monthly Saturday night director. Cut the needless drama and try to be shows, Sunday drag brunch and regular Friday positive to other people. Nobody wants to work night party bus. Learn more at AllBuff.com. with someone who comes across as negative Follow on Twitter @BuffFaye all the time. Your goal is to attract business to

SHOUT OUTS: Every Monday night come watch “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 8 at

The Bar at 316. Part of proceeds each week support Campus Pride for LGBTQ youth. Also buy tickets for Buff Faye’s Annual St. Patty Party Bus on Friday, March 11 and see Pearl from Season 7 on the bus that night at Chasers Charlotte. Buy at CampusPride.org/PartyBus.

March 11-24 . 2016

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March 11-24 . 2016